Caít Keane (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In regard to the Minister's statement of 23 May 2012, he has confirmed that his overriding concern in making a decision on the application is the long-term preservation and protection of the national monument, along with the appropriate and respectful commemoration of the 1916 leaders. What can this committee do? Senator Ó Murchú made the point about never the twain shall meet. However, we should come together to discuss our different views. The Minister has stated unequivocally that the buildings at Nos. 14 to 17 Moore Street are robustly and comprehensively protected as a national monument and no change can be made to the buildings, whether externally or internally, without his consent. I have seen the plans that the group originally presented but with NAMA now in the picture and the developer removed from it, at least in monetary terms, what is the next step? The group cannot say the buildings should be allowed to deteriorate. I have seen fine buildings deteriorate through a lack of action. We cannot allow that to happen.